When a silkworm transforms, it bundles itself into a cocoon of raw silk. For over 5,000 years, this cocoon has been used in the production of silk threads that are made into silk textiles and exported throughout the world, especially in ancient Rome along the famous Silk Road.
The Silk Face Scrub, otherwise called a kese, from Bursa, Turkey is made using this protective shell. Emre Ustun from Turkey uses a traditional handloom to weave this silk into skincare products for the most delicate uses – like facial cleansing.
Studies show that exfoliation, the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of your body, is the key to preventing breakouts and black heads, and for achieving cleaner, smoother skin.
Silk fiber is pure protein, a compilation of amino acids like gylcine, alanine, and sericin, a gum-like protein. Silk, similar to human skin, has been used historically for sutures (it completely reabsorbs into the skin) and is currently undergoing testing for use in the treatment of colon cancer.
Here are three simple steps to use your scrubber:
1. Take a hot shower or bath as usual. The steam helps loosen dirt and grime.
2. Wet the silk scrub in hot water and rub in circular motions to remove dead skin cells.
3. Rinse with cold water, which helps to reduce pore size.
After the silk scrub, feel free to use your normal facial cleanser.
In using your Silk Face Scrub, start gently, making sure to moisturize after each use. If you have sensitive skin, start out using the scrubber once a week or less. Be sure to thoroughly clean off your scrubber every week to keep it free of dead skin cells. And feel free to be greedy with this item and keep it to yourself – if your friends are interested in one, buy them their very own Silk Scrub here.
Keep in mind that it can take up to four weeks to see results. But you too can experience the benefits of silk the way women in Southeast Asia have for thousands of millennia.
Post by Barbara Lee.
Barbara is a world traveler who is passionate about sustainable food systems, responsible consumerism, and holistic living. Her professional background and interests include writing, non-profit legal work, eco-conservation, and motorcycles.
